Enhanced check stops during the holiday season

The Calgary Police Service, along with members of the Alberta Integrated Traffic Unit and volunteers with MADD Canada – Calgary Chapter, will be out in full force this holiday season to draw attention to the issue of impaired driving.

Starting Thursday, Dec. 12, 2013, enhanced check stops will run during daytime hours to complement the existing evening check stops that CPS runs year-round.

Dubbed Operation Enough is Enough, these random stops are as much about awareness as they are about enforcement, deterring those thinking about taking a risk and driving while impaired. While we encourage everyone to enjoy the holiday season, it is important to be responsible.

In 2012, more than 7,300 vehicles were stopped during the daytime enhanced check stops resulting in fifteen impaired driving charges, five 72-hour suspensions, and 14 24-hour suspensions for drugs.

To date in 2013, there have been 36 fatal collisions in Calgary, killing 39 people. Eighteen of those collisions have involved alcohol.

Whether you volunteer to be a designated driver for your friends or family, take a cab after an event, or call 9-1-1 if you suspect a driver is impaired, everyone plays a part in ensuring our streets are safe.